Half tube lever actions

[220yotekiller]

I had a chance to buy a buddy’s Winchester 55 in 32 Special, I passed because it had had a long life in a rifle boot and it was a half tube, I have never seen the point of the half tube lever guns ( with the exception of the Marlin guide guns) I think they look off balance plus they hold less ammunition.
Anyone know why they made half tubes?

 

[MTTW]

It was generally to lighten or better balance the rifle. Same with half round or shorter than standard barrels. Especially on large lever rifles, it makes them much more pleasant to carry in your hand. I agree that shorter than full mag tubes don't look as good.

 

[Ben Lamb]

You should buy the 55 if it's a take down.

An Official Journal Of The NRA | Winchester Model 55 Takedown

The Model 55 is an example of a 20th century hunting rifle that, while still serviceable, is also increasingly collectible.

www.americanrifleman.org

 

[2rocky]

My great grandfather's 25-35 in model 64 is a well balanced rifle with the half tube. I often thought the same but realized that a full tube would make it quite barrel heavy.

Funny how we get preconceived notions about rifle beauty. For example: You couldn't give me a model 99 Savage, and I think Marlins look like "Fat bottomed girls"

 

[220yotekiller]

My great grandfather's 25-35 in model 64 is a well balanced rifle with the half tube. I often thought the same but realized that a full tube would make it quite barrel heavy.

Funny how we get preconceived notions about rifle beauty. For example: You couldn't give me a model 99 Savage, and I think Marlins look like "Fat bottomed girls"

Hahahaha

 

[220yotekiller]

I really like the way Winchesters look, the same with Marlins, l think Henry’s look like toys when they have that shiny brass receiver and I have never had a thing for the Savages either.

 

[elkantlers]

That's why they have menus at restaurants.

 

[kodiakisland]

Full tube: working rifle
Half tube: sporting rifle

I like both.

 

[Wind Gypsy]

My great grandfather's 25-35 in model 64 is a well balanced rifle with the half tube. I often thought the same but realized that a full tube would make it quite barrel heavy.

Funny how we get preconceived notions about rifle beauty. For example: You couldn't give me a model 99 Savage, and I think Marlins look like "Fat bottomed girls"

But do you say fat bottomed girls in a good way or bad?